State employee drug screen (schools, university, live)

[bill94-red]

Any state employees out there, specifically employees that have worked for state schools?

I've accepted an offer for a state employee position at a Univeristy, and was expecting a drug screen but was told "not at this time" when asking about it. I'm coming from the private sector which always does a drug screen before hiring you. So, I'm curious if this is a common thing, or if they do drug testing after you start (which seems very odd if so)?

[theuserofthisaccount]

It probably varies depending on the position/agency, etc. I've worked at two NC community colleges and never been tested. I guess the important thing is they always have the right to test you ...

[bill94-red]

Originally Posted by theuserofthisaccount

It probably varies depending on the position/agency, etc. I've worked at two NC community colleges and never been tested. I guess the important thing is they always have the right to test you ...

Thanks for the feedback. I'm guessing it's maybe a cost cut or something? I just thought it was odd that someone employing you wouldn't have you complete a drug screen prior to starting. As I said, in the private sector that's unheard-of.

[HRVT]

Originally Posted by bill94-red

Thanks for the feedback. I'm guessing it's maybe a cost cut or something? I just thought it was odd that someone employing you wouldn't have you complete a drug screen prior to starting. As I said, in the private sector that's unheard-of.

I've had three private sector jobs and only had to get tested for one. Overall, it's just all about who you get hired by and what they do. Public sector may be cutting back like you said.

[UnderTheLiveOaks]

I've never gotten a drug screening for any job I've ever had. Public or private. I work at an NC university and it has never come up.

[KL77]

My husband had a drug screen when they hired him at Guilford County Schools in 2012 but it's likely they've decided to be more selective about it for cost savings. Their budget right now is minuscule. It probably makes more sense to save it for those who they have actual suspicions about.

[WFW&P]

My guess the money was shifted to test welfare recipients, you know, because they all just sit around and do drugs all the time.

[bill94-red]

Originally Posted by UnderTheLiveOaks

I've never gotten a drug screening for any job I've ever had. Public or private. I work at an NC university and it has never come up.

I've had 4 private sector jobs for companies ranging from 200 employees to 30K and all required a pre-employment drug screen. My first "career" job did not but there were only 5 employees. I guess as others have said it just depends on the company and position. Although, I know most if not all the major private employers in the Triad require it.

[cchswcupk]

State jobs are considered random testing

[skinsguy37]

I work for a state school. No drug testing. However, I think the school reserves the right to conduct random drug testing.